Beyond Knowledge Deficit to a Proposal for Information-Seeking Behaviors

TOPIC. Nursing assessment of knowledge or informational needs.
PURPOSE. To present a brief evolutionary analysis of knowledge deficit in terms of its significance, application, and use, and to present a proposed diagnosis, "information-seeking behaviors."
SOURCES. Literature review of knowledge deficit and "information-seeking behaviors."
CONCLUSIONS. Knowledge deficit is a nursing diagnosis that is significant for identifying a patient's need for education or knowledge. Its application has revealed limitations to validity and subsequent use. "Information-seeking behaviors" is proposed as an alternative diagnosis. Antecedents and defining characteristics are presented and areas for future research proposed.